Scotch whisky trademarked in Burma

A collective trademark to protect Scotch whisky against fakes has been introduced in Burma – a market which saw Scotch exports jump by 65% last year.

The changes will allow action can be taken more effectively against products wrongly being sold or passed off as Scotch whisky giving greater protection to both consumers and the industry, according to the Scotch Whisky Association.

The changes mirror those introduced in Australia earlier this year, a country which was said to have a “serious problem” with fakes.

The trademark gives similar protection to Scotch in Burma already enjoyed by products such as Parma ham and Champagne which are subject to a geographic indicator (GI).

Andrew Patrick, the British Ambassador to Burma, added: “Scotch whisky is recognised worldwide as a distinctive and high quality British product and I am delighted that the Burmese authorities have taken steps to recognise and protect this.

“A robust legal framework is of great importance to foreign investors in any market and the British Embassy is supportive of the Burmese Government’s efforts to develop this.”

Scotch Whisky exports to Burma jumped in value by 65% last year to £2 million, up from £888,734 in 2012.

Alan Park, legal advisor of the Scotch Whisky Association, said: “Products suspected of misleading consumers and damaging the legitimate trade are already under investigation and may become the subject of legal action using the protection now given to Scotch whisky in Burma.”